In the mid 1970’s, the visionary community of Meadowvale began to take shape. It was conceived as a ‘new town’ concept where larger residential subdivisions would include homes, schools, and community centre around a park and small man-made lake. This vision successfully became a catalyst for a thriving denser neighborhood. Through the years, the park and lake matured nicely, however the original community centre had outlived its purpose, no longer able to serve the growing population and their cultural diversity. This was the first opportunity for the City of Mississauga to imagine the next generation of community centres. Perkins+Will were asked to help search for this new model, capture the full potential of the site, and engage a broader range of residents. The goal was to recognize the original inspiration of Meadowvale but tell a new story that reflected the changing dynamic of this community.

The old centre had served the community well and had many supporters. The design team therefore began by gaining the input of the residents early on and introducing them to the expanded program which now included a gym, fitness centre, multi-purpose spaces, pool, and a library. The integration of the Library with the recreation program offered significant social benefits to a wider range of user groups. It broadened the experience uniting learning with wellness.